A small pizzeria from central Poland has achieved global recognition by being named the best Neapolitan pizzeria in the world. Zielona Górka, located in Pabianice, received the prestigious title from the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), an international organization that brings together authentic pizzerias from over 50 countries. The distinction was awarded through a vote by approximately 1,100 pizza specialists worldwide.
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The honor marks a significant achievement for both the restaurant and Poland’s growing reputation in the global culinary scene. “I never expected such recognition. This is a huge promotion not only for our restaurant but also for Pabianice and Poland,” said Jędrzej Lewandowski, the owner of Zielona Górka.
A Prestigious Recognition
The AVPN, based in Naples, is the most respected authority on traditional Neapolitan pizza. The organization ensures that pizzerias adhere to strict guidelines in order to preserve the authenticity of this classic dish, which has been inscribed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Winning this title is particularly noteworthy given that Naples is regarded as the birthplace of pizza, making it rare for a non-Italian pizzeria to claim the top spot. In fact, Lewandowski’s establishment is only the second pizzeria outside of Naples to receive this honor—the previous winner, in 2023, was a pizzeria in São Paulo, Brazil.
From Garage to Global Recognition
The story of Zielona Górka is one of passion and perseverance. The restaurant is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, but its beginnings were humble. Lewandowski, an architect by profession, left his career to pursue his love for pizza. He started experimenting with recipes in a garage, working tirelessly for two years to perfect his dough and techniques.
“For two years, I made pizza in a windowless garage, staring at a wall. It was a process of trial and error,” Lewandowski recalled. Eventually, his dedication paid off, and Zielona Górka grew into one of Poland’s most respected pizzerias.
The restaurant has already received recognition in the past, making multiple appearances on the Top 50 Pizza World ranking—a global list of the best pizzerias. The next edition of this ranking is expected later this year, and after winning the AVPN award, many expect Zielona Górka to place even higher.
A Boost for Polish Culinary Prestige
This latest accolade has brought international attention to Poland’s growing food scene. “We’ve already had visitors from all over Poland, but now we’re seeing more guests from abroad as well. Recently, an American from New York who was living in Kraków traveled twice to Pabianice just to eat at our pizzeria,” said Lewandowski.
The success of Zielona Górka also highlights the importance of small businesses in Poland’s economy. “Small restaurants and independent businesses like ours contribute significantly to the country’s economy. We pay taxes, create jobs, and support local suppliers,” Lewandowski emphasized. His restaurant currently employs around 20 people, many of whom are young workers, while also partnering with local food producers.
The Future of Zielona Górka
With international recognition now secured, Lewandowski plans to continue refining his craft and maintaining the high standards that earned him this title. “This success comes with great responsibility. People travel long distances just to try our pizza, and we have to live up to their expectations every single day,” he said.
For now, Zielona Górka remains a must-visit destination for pizza lovers, proving that world-class Neapolitan pizza can be found in the heart of Poland
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